Genomic information is continuing to become incorporated in the clinical practice of neurology. It is difficult for the average neurologist to maintain knowledge in this ever-changing field. However, there is considerable practical genetic and genomic knowledge in updated databases on the internet that are designed for clinical use. Understanding these programs and databases and how to use them can greatly facilitate the neurologist's application of genomic knowledge into his/her practice. This program seeks to provide neurologists with knowledge of genomic databases and websites, how to use them in the application of clinical questions arising from genomic or genetic questions or data from their patients. Its emphasis is on practical experience using key websites to work through cases especially designed for this purpose. The course is hands-on, using team-based learning (TBL) that will allow participants to work together using online genomics tools to answer practical clinical questions in a case-based format. Participants will receive instructional materials prior to the workshop, to help those that need basic information. This flipped-classroom model allows more classroom time for performance-based interaction with instructors. A brief pre-lecture will ensure participants understand the important concepts to proceed to the TBL activity, but lecture time is kept to a minimum, with emphasis on participants actually getting hands-on experience. Teams will answer case questions related to practical issues in ordering and interpreting genomic testing and using next-generation sequencing in practice.

Completion Message:

Participants should be able to list the factors that help determine which patients are appropriate candidates for neuro-genomic testing; determine, using online tools, the clinical significance of genetic variants related to diagnosing and treating neurologic disease; describe key aspects of informed consent for genomic analyses; describe the process of next-generation sequencing data analysis; and describe the benefits and limitations of integrative genomic analyses for patients with neurologic disease, including managing incidental findings. Finally, one goal is for the neurologist to be able to ask appropriate and knowledgeable questions (speak the language) when interacting with their genetic specialists.